Festive sweets & their lessons for dancers

We prepare to embrace the festive season and sweets, where each delicacy on our platter is not just a treat but a symbol of something more profound. For dancers, in particular, the messages embedded in these festive sweets offer valuable insights for navigating both the highs and lows of the artistic journey. You know sweets symbolise resilience, unity, self-confidence, and hope – qualities every dancer needs to foster.

Ballet Sweets

The joy of dance, much like the delight of sweets, is universal. But both come with their unique challenges, demanding resilience, focus, and an ability to embrace one’s journey, no matter how unconventional or difficult it may be. Let’s take a closer look at some of the beloved sweets, each holding a message that can inspire dancers to pursue their passion with strength, humility, and optimism.

Dancers diet (left) and dancer’s eating pose

Jalebi

Jalebi, with its coiled shape and golden sweetness, reminds us that life can be unpredictable and, at times, messy. As dancers, we often aim for perfection, believing that every move, pose, and turn must align flawlessly. However, Jalebi teaches us that while technical precision is crucial, it is the spirit and emotion behind the movement that resonates with audiences. Dancers need to embrace their unique journey, which may not be linear or perfect but still has the potential to bring joy and depth.

The nature of Jalebi, with its twisted shape, reinforces that despite the seeming chaos, there’s beauty in embracing imperfection. Keep a sweet tone, in practice and in life, and focus on the essence of your art. Technicalities, though important, should never overshadow the soulfulness that true dance brings forth.

Rosogolla

The Rosogolla, soft and spongy, represents resilience in its purest form. When pressed, it releases sweetness rather than breaking. Dancers, like Rosogollas, often face high-pressure situations – be it an intense rehearsal, a physically demanding routine, or personal setbacks. The lesson here is to withstand these pressures gracefully. No matter how challenging things may seem, remember to stay true to your essence.

Rosogolla also teaches that there is power in flexibility and resilience. As dancers, we must adapt to different styles, partners, and stages, learning to shine regardless of the circumstances. And when the pressure is off, just as Rosogolla returns to its original form, we too must regain our strength, embracing rest and self-care as vital parts of our practice.

Boondi Laddu

A Boondi Laddu is made up of tiny boondi droplets, each seemingly insignificant on its own but coming together to create something magnificent. Similarly, every step, every hour of practice, and each small improvement contribute to the journey of a dancer. Dance is an art that demands discipline, patience, and consistent effort, and like the boondi droplets, these seemingly minor details build up to create an impactful performance.

Boondi Laddu teaches dancers the value of community and collaboration. Dance often requires the combined efforts of choreographers, fellow dancers, and mentors. When individuals come together, miracles happen, and the beauty of dance shines through unity and cooperation. Remember, every small step matters, and together, these steps create something beautiful.

Soan Papdi

Soan Papdi, the flaky and layered delight, is a unique Diwali sweet that not everyone may appreciate. Yet, it’s packed with layers of sweetness that are revealed only when savored slowly. As dancers, we often find ourselves striving for validation, seeking applause and recognition. However, Soan Papdi reminds us that the worth of our art doesn’t rely solely on external appreciation.

Dancers, much like Soan Papdi, possess layers of skill, talent, and dedication, qualities that may not be obvious to everyone. Pursue your goals with persistence, focus on refining your technique, and don’t let fleeting opinions sway your commitment. Each layer of dedication and hard work adds depth to your art, and sometimes, your true value will only be recognized by those who take the time to appreciate it.

Gulab Jamun

The beloved Gulab Jamun, with its tender texture and rich hue, teaches us that gentleness is not a weakness. In the world of dance, especially classical forms, softness and grace are often as valued as strength and vigor. Embracing qualities like humility and compassion can add depth to one’s art and presence on stage.

Softness, like that of a Gulab Jamun, can be a source of power. In dance, vulnerability allows for genuine expression. By embracing gentleness, dancers can connect with audiences on an emotional level, making their performance all the more memorable. Gulab Jamun teaches us to take pride in qualities that are often undervalued – kindness, humility, and grace – as they add unique layers of strength to our artistic expression.

Besan Laddu

Besan Laddu is known for its crumbly texture, a reminder that life, much like this sweet, can fall apart. But Besan Laddu also shows us that anything can be rebuilt, given the right ingredients and care. Dancers experience setbacks – injuries, missed opportunities, or failed auditions – which can feel like everything has crumbled. But just as a broken Besan Laddu can be reformed, dancers too can rebuild themselves.

This sweet symbolises hope, encouraging dancers to keep moving forward. Setbacks are part of the journey, but with determination and resilience, we can regain our strength. Besan Laddu teaches that no matter how many times we fall, we can rebuild, piece by piece, and emerge even stronger.

Kaju Katli

Kaju Katli, with its gleaming silver leaf, stands as a reminder that there’s always a reason to shine. In dance, as in life, challenges are inevitable. But Kaju Katli encourages us to maintain a positive outlook and seek the silver lining. Every misstep and every struggle has something to teach, an opportunity for growth.

For dancers, this silver lining could be the chance to refine technique, to learn from peers, or to connect more deeply with the art form. The silver-coated Kaju Katli reminds us to maintain our sparkle, no matter what the circumstances. In every situation, find the element that allows you to shine and hold onto it.

Remember each sweet carries a message that can inspire and guide your journey as a dancer. The journey of a dancer is filled with challenges, but with a spirit like Jalebi’s sweetness, Rosogolla’s resilience, and Kaju Katli’s silver lining, you can face each step with positivity and grace. So, as you savor these sweets, let them serve as reminders of the resilience, patience, and passion that fuel your love for dance. Embrace the journey with all its twists and turns, and may the sweetness bring light and joy to your artistic path.

Sandip Soparrkar holds a doctorate in world mythology folklore from Pacific University USA, an honorary doctorate in performing arts from the National American University, He is a World Book Record holder, a well-known Ballroom dancer and a Bollywood choreographer who has been honored with three National Excellence awards, one National Achievement Award and Dada Saheb Phalke award by the Government of India. He can be contacted on [email protected]